A team of rail engineers has devised a series of simple ways to reduce the deadly impact of terror attacks on trains and metros.

After studying the devastation caused by a bomb on a normal carriage, they have come up with potentially life-saving designs which could be introduced in the future.

Conor O'Neill from Newcastle University's NewRail research centre has developed a range of blast-resistant designs, looking particularly at reducing debris and containing any explosive shock wave.

His team studied the effects of the Madrid bombings in 2004 which killed 191 people, and the 7/7 attack in London a year later in which 52 passengers died.

They also filmed an explosion on a decommissioned carriage, and analysed what happened in less than a second after a bomb went off.

The research team analysed an explosion on a decommissoned carriage

They found that a cheap plastic coating on windows could prevent glass showering bystanders after an explosion and flying debris could be reduced by tethering down panels - while lighter, energy-absorbing panels could also reduce a blast's impact.

Mr O'Neill, based in the university's School of Mechanical and Systems Engineering, said: "The Madrid bombings in 2004 and the 7/7 attack in London the year after highlighted how vulnerable our trains are to attack - particularly busy metro and commuter trains.

"At the same time we have to be realistic - completely replacing existing vehicles just isn't an option. Instead, we have developed and incorporated new technology and materials into existing carriages to improve performance.

"And what we've shown is that companies could make some relatively cost-effective and simple modifications that would significantly improve the outcome of an attack."

The team closely studied footage of the staged blast, shot on high-speed cameras, to understand how the shock wave travelled through the carriage.

Explosion footage helped the team explore how to limit a blast's impact

They then built a prototype designed with blast-resistance in mind.

"Preventing flying objects is the key," said Mr O'Neill.

"Tethering ceiling panels reduced the risk of fatalities and injury from flying shrapnel and meant the gangways were kept relatively clear of debris, allowing emergency staff quick access to the injured.

"The window coating we developed was also incredibly effective. Without it the windows are blown outwards - putting anyone outside, such as those standing on a platform, at risk from flying glass.

"With the plastic coating you see a clear rippling effect as the blast moves through the train but every window remains intact apart from the safety windows which are designed to be easily knocked out."

The Madrid train bombings in 2004 killed 191 people

He added: "A bomb on a train is always going to be devastating, but what we are trying to do is find a way in which the vehicle itself can help to mitigate the impact of an attack.

"These are all low-cost, simple solutions that can be put on existing trains which could not only save lives but also reduce the attractiveness of our railways for potential terrorist attacks."

The EU-funded SecureMetro project aims to reduce the impact of terror attacks on trains.